In a statement, Hardwicke said: "We are shocked by the views expressed in Barbara Hewson's article in Spiked.

"We did not see or approve the article pre-publication and we completely dissociate ourselves from its content and any related views she may have expressed via social media or any other media outlets."

Her comments come as Scotland Yard continues Operation Yewtree, an investigation split into three inquiries into allegations involving deceased presenter Jimmy Savile, claims involving Savile and others, and those involving just others.

A number of high-profile figures have been arrested under Yewtree such as entertainer Rolf Harris, former pop star Gary Glitter, DJ Dave Lee Travis, comedian Jim Davidson and PR guru Max Clifford.

All deny any wrongdoing.

Ms Hewson argued that "the post-Savile witch-hunting of ageing celebs echoes the Soviet Union" and said it is not difficult to see why some elderly defendants "conclude that resistance is useless".

She added: "But the low-level misdemeanours with which Stuart Hall was charged are nothing like serious crime. Ordinarily, Hall's misdemeanours would not be prosecuted, and certainly not decades after the event.

"What we have here is the manipulation of the British criminal justice system to produce scapegoats on demand...

"As for law reform, now regrettably necessary, my recommendations are remove complainant anonymity, introduce a strict statute of limitations for criminal prosecutions and civil actions and reduce the age of consent to 13."

Peter Watt, director of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) helpline, said: "These outdated and simply ill-informed views would be shocking to hear from anyone but to hear them from a highly experienced barrister simply beggars belief.

"Stuart Hall has pleaded guilty to abusing children as young as nine years old; we think most people would agree that crimes of this nature are incredibly serious. Thankfully the law, and most people, are very clear on this matter."

"Any suggestion of lowering the age of consent could put more young people at risk from those who prey on vulnerable young people."

Ms Hewson is regularly ranked as a Leading Junior by The Legal 500 in the fields of public and administrative law, human rights and civil liberties, and professional discipline and regulatory law, according to her chambers' website.